SB 1261 Pennsylvania Senate · 2023-2024 Regular Session

An Act amending the act of March 10, 1949 (P.L.30, No.14), known as the Public School Code of 1949, establishing the School Mental Health Screening Grant and Development Program; and making appropriations.

This bill creates a new grant program within the Pennsylvania Department of Education to help public school districts provide annual mental health screenings for students in grades six through twelve. To receive funding, schools must apply by proposing specific evidence-based screening tools, outlining how they will use the money to hire staff or expand counseling services, and detailing an emergency plan for students who need immediate help. The program will begin in the 2025-2026 school year, and the department will assess each school district's readiness before selecting participants. Additionally, the bill requires the department to consult with national mental health organizations and establish a list of qualified vendors to support the screening process.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jun 2024
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jun 18, 2024 Last action Jun 18, 2024
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Total actions
1
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0
Committee
1
Jun 18, 2024
Committee
Referred to Education
upper
1 primary · 9 co-sponsors

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